A boost to the region is on the cards with the planned Ely north junction upgrade, MPs agreed when they met with the rail minister.

MPs from across the region met rail minster Claire Perry to discuss the upgrade where they focused on the line between London and Kings Lynn as well as cross country and freight services.

Last month the Department for Transport confirmed that all rail projects are under review to ensure schemes can be delivered.

The Ely North junction serves passenger trains between Norwich and Cambridge, Kings Lynn and London, cross country routes to Peterborough and Liverpool, Stansted services and freight movement.

Steve Barclay, MP for North East Cambridgeshire said: “I am pleased that the Rail Minister has met with MPs to discuss the Ely north junction upgrade. “The economic benefits of the upgrade are estimated to be worth £220 million and would be a welcome boost to the economic growth of our region.

“I am keen to ensure that the twice hourly service between Kings Lynn and London, which will benefit Littleport residents in particular, as well as those from Cambridgeshire who use Downham Market, begins as scheduled by the end of 2017.

“The junction upgrade will also enable more freight to travel by rail and act as a further step forward in the delivery of the Wisbech to Cambridge Science Park rail service.”